Joey Johns to give Tim Smith the edge

The Parramatta Eels have offered troubled halfback Tim Smith the olive branch; allowing the crafty no. 7 back into the squad to resume training.

Smith has not only had to battle the bottle, but is still overcoming his shoulder surgery and hurriedly trying to piece everything together to be ready for 2008. At the insistence of coach Michael Hagan, Joey Johns will remain close to Smith and aid his recovery on top of teaching the promising half the finer tricks of the trade.

The private battles Andrew Johns fought in his own corner would surely be of help to Tim Smith who at 22 has seen more than most on and off the field. Adding to the chorus of help Tim Smith has had, reformed bad boy Chris Walker has reportedly been in touch with Smith to lend him some advice.

For all his skill, Tim Smith still remains lucky to be at the Eels. While we did feel his initial blow up with a pub patron prior to his suspension from Parramatta was a little blown out of proportion, continued offending has seen the blame keep coming back at Smith.

Well past his last chance, the young halfback obviously needs to really put his best foot forward or risk throwing away what could be a stellar career.